It’s hard to think that anything will make you feel more comfortable after a disaster.

But remember the little things.  What are the things that can make things a bit more durable?

In the midst of a crisis, comfort items within a 72-hour kit can be the soothing balm that helps individuals navigate the emotional tumult that often accompanies emergencies. The psychological impact of these seemingly simple items should not be underestimated. While the primary objective of a 72-hour kit is to provide the essentials for survival, comfort items play a pivotal role in maintaining one’s mental and emotional well-being during challenging times.

When thinking about comfort items, envision the security of a soft blanket wrapped around you, the nostalgic aroma of a favorite snack, or the reassurance that personal mementos can bring in a time of distress. These familiar and cherished items offer a sense of normalcy, acting as emotional anchors that keep us grounded in an otherwise unpredictable situation. The act of snuggling into a cozy blanket or savoring a beloved treat can provide a comforting routine, which can be invaluable when the world around you feels chaotic and uncertain.

It’s hard to think that anything will make you feel more comfortable after a disaster.

But remember the little things.  What are the things that can make things a bit more durable?

Sleeping bags or Comfortable Blankets

-Every kit should have the reflective super blanket, but let’s face it, they’re like snuggling up to tin foil. An ultra-light sleeping bag or even a cheap light fleece blanket can be a small source of joy. An inflatable or ultra-light pillow would be heavenly.

Practical Purposes of Comfort Items

Moreover, comfort items can serve practical purposes as well. That soft blanket isn’t just for comfort; it can also provide warmth when the temperature drops. Favorite snacks can supply a quick energy boost when needed most, and personal mementos can offer motivation and resilience during tough times. The psychological comfort they provide extends beyond simple sentimentality; it is rooted in their capacity to improve our emotional state and, in turn, our ability to cope with adversity. So, while these items may not seem critical in the traditional sense, their significance becomes evident in their ability to offer solace, emotional support, and even practical advantages during a crisis.

Entertainment for Mental Resilience

One key aspect of the importance of entertainment lies in the need to reduce boredom and isolation during a crisis. Boredom can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and restlessness, and isolation can intensify the emotional toll of a disaster. Having entertainment items in your 72-hour kit can serve as a lifeline during these trying times, providing a means to stay engaged, maintain a sense of normalcy, and alleviate the stress that often accompanies emergencies.

Ideal Entertainment Items

So, what are the ideal entertainment items to include in your 72-hour kit? Remember, your entertainment needs to be versatile so it can be repeated without losing interest, and a portion should be family-oriented. Here are some suggestions:

1. Books: A well-chosen book can transport the mind to different worlds, offering an escape from the immediate challenges. Be sure the books are new and unfamiliar but similar to some beloved favorites. If your kids have a stack of favorites that they could read for hours – purchase a second copy and pack them as well. Familiarity is an important thing in helping them cope as well. Don’t forget school workbooks since it could be a while before schools open. Homeschooling will help establish a familiar routine and a sense of normalcy, which is vital for emotional recovery.
2. Playing Cards: A standard deck of playing cards is a versatile source of entertainment, offering a variety of games for individuals or groups.
3. Comfort Items: Every child seems to have that one ratty stuffed animal that they literally can’t live without. Don’t forget it! Pack a second in your pack, or get as close as possible. You are not going to be able to search your house looking for it. If their favorite changes frequently, just be sure to pack something. A security item is vital in helping them cope and gives them a feeling of security. Once again, a small dollar-store stuffed animal is a great way to go. Same with a small blanket, which you can also find at dollar stores.
4. Puzzle Books: Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and brain-teasers provide mental stimulation and a sense of accomplishment.
5. Board Games: Compact versions of board games like chess, checkers, or travel-sized editions of popular games can provide hours of entertainment.
6. Notebook and Pen: Having a notebook and pen allows individuals to jot down their thoughts, maintain a journal, or engage in creative writing or sketching.
7. Musical Instruments: If anyone in your family plays a musical instrument like a harmonica or a ukulele, these can offer both entertainment and emotional comfort.
8. Art Supplies: Compact art supplies such as colored pencils, sketchbooks, or adult coloring books can serve as creative outlets.
9. Battery-Powered Radio: This will help you stay informed about the situation, receive critical updates, and even offer a connection to the outside world, reducing feelings of isolation. Make sure to include extra batteries.
10. Indoor Games and Rules: This site has it all; simply print a few and add them to your pack. www.fungameskidsplay.com– classic games, clapping games, etc
11. Scriptures: Individuals find solace and strength in including scriptures or religious texts. For many, these sacred writings provide a source of spiritual comfort, hope, and guidance during times of distress. Whether it’s a compact Bible, Quran, Bhagavad Gita, or any other religious scripture, these texts offer a connection to one’s faith and a source of reflection and inspiration. In an emergency, the power of faith and the soothing words of scriptures can bring solace, helping individuals find inner peace and mental resilience as they navigate uncertain and challenging circumstances.

These simple entertainment items are not only effective at passing the time but also offer a much-needed distraction from the challenges at hand, fostering mental resilience in the face of adversity.

Entertainment Items to Avoid

Opt for entertainment that is compact, lightweight, and has a broad appeal within your family or group. Avoid items that are excessively bulky, fragile, or require substantial power, such as large board games, heavy musical instruments, or electronic devices with limited battery life. You don’t want to carry 20 lbs of batteries, and they will go through them – FAST! Besides, we’ve all experienced the meltdown that accompanies being forced to turn something off or when the batteries die.

Additionally, items that may be overly distracting, controversial, or inappropriate for the circumstances should be omitted. The goal of your entertainment choices is to provide comfort and a sense of normalcy, so ensure that the items selected align with the overall purpose of maintaining morale and mental well-being during challenging times.

Hygiene

The importance of maintaining personal sanitation during a crisis cannot be overstated. In these challenging times, personal comfort and well-being are paramount, and hygiene plays a pivotal role in preserving one’s physical and mental health. A well-rounded 72-hour kit should include personal hygiene items, ensuring that individuals can maintain a sense of cleanliness and self-care, even in the direst circumstances. While comfort and entertainment are crucial, they should not come at the cost of neglecting our personal hygiene.

There’s nothing like being able to shower after a long day. Sorry, I can’t help you there unless you decide to pack a camp shower (possible but bulky). However, simple items for personal hygiene can go a long way towards making you feel human again

• • Deodorant
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Soap
  • Toothbrushes and toothpaste
  • Wet wipes
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Fresh pair of socks
  • Sturdy shoes
  • Diapers (if you have a baby)
  • Change of clothing

Contraceptives

– (BLUSH!) It may be the farthest thing from your mind now about what you’ll be doing after a disaster, but my midwife in South Dakota swears that any kind of blackout is always followed by a surge in babies nine months later. Just be prepared so you don’t have to fret or deal with morning sickness while trying to get your life back together.

Toilet paper

Even seemingly mundane items like toilet paper can make a world of difference. While the focus primarily revolves around sustenance and safety, the inclusion of toilet paper should not be underestimated. When faced with unexpected challenges, maintaining personal hygiene and a semblance of normalcy can significantly impact one’s mental and emotional well-being. Toilet paper, often taken for granted in everyday life, becomes a comfort item in emergency situations, providing a sense of familiarity and cleanliness. The inclusion of this basic necessity in a 72-hour kit acknowledges the importance of both physical and psychological comfort, ensuring that individuals are better equipped to face adversity with a little more dignity and peace of mind.

Basic Toiletries

Basic toiletries, such as soap, toothpaste, and sanitary supplies, are cornerstones of personal hygiene and should be integral components of any 72-hour kit. Soap allows individuals to cleanse their bodies, removing germs and reducing the risk of illness, which is particularly critical when traditional hygiene facilities may be unavailable. Toothpaste not only supports dental health but also offers the mental comfort of fresh breath and a sense of normalcy.

• • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Moist Towelettes
  • Lip balm with sunblock
  • Hairbrush or comb
  • Feminine Supplies

Miscellaneous Supplies

Weather Protection

Weather protective utilities, such as waterproof clothing, compact umbrellas, or emergency ponchos, should not be overlooked. These items not only shield individuals from the elements but also offer the comfort of staying dry and warm, a basic need that can significantly impact mental well-being.

Being prepared for adverse weather conditions ensures that individuals can stay comfortable and engaged, enjoying their chosen forms of entertainment in safety and security, even when nature’s elements are at their most challenging.

Building a Well-Rounded 72-Hour Kit

Creating a 72-hour emergency kit is a critical step in ensuring you and your family are prepared to face unexpected crises with confidence. A well-rounded kit should encompass not only the fundamental essentials for survival but also comfort items and entertainment options. This comprehensive checklist serves as a guide to help you build a 72-hour kit that strikes the ideal balance between meeting immediate needs and promoting mental resilience.

Regular Review and Updates

Your 72-hour kit should be periodically reviewed and updated. Check expiration dates on food and medications, refresh water supplies, and replace batteries. It is best to obtain a three-day supply and ensure that each item has a year shelf life. Update clothing, important family documents, copies of insurance policies, and bank account records as needed. Ensure that your comfort and entertainment items are current and relevant.

Building a well-rounded 72-hour kit is a testament to your commitment to preparedness. It goes beyond surviving; it’s about thriving, even in the face of adversity. By striking the right balance between essentials, comfort, and entertainment, and by regularly reviewing and updating your kit, you’re not only safeguarding your physical well-being but also preserving your mental and emotional resilience during times of crisis.

Conclusion

Recognizing the significance of comfort and entertainment within 72-hour kits is a testament to the holistic approach to readiness, addressing both the physical and emotional needs of individuals and families during times of crisis.

As we mark National Preparedness Month, we encourage you to take the National Preparedness Month Challenge. Prepare your own well-rounded emergency kit, striking the ideal balance between essentials, comfort, and entertainment. By doing so, you’re not only securing your physical well-being but also fostering the resilience of your mind and spirit. The path to preparedness is a journey that empowers us all to face an uncertain world with confidence, determination, and unwavering strength.